Private equity firm Exponent has selected Dublin for its new operational base, and has opened at office at
39 Merrion Square.

Exponent is utilising Ireland’s newly revised Investment Limited Partnership (ILP) structure, following approval from the Central Bank for Exponent’s Irish business to operate as an Alternative Investment Fund Manager.

The Dublin office is led by operation director Jacqueline Flynn, formerly COO for BlackRock’s Irish operations.

In Ireland, Exponent acquired Fintrax in 2012 (now known as Planet), the Racing Post in 2016, Enva in 2017, and in 2022 H&MV Engineering and Xeinadin.

Enva was sold in June to a global infrastructure manager and delivered a near 4x return for Exponent’s investors.

Exponent partner David McGovern commented: “Ireland is a compelling environment to invest the resources of our Firm and opening an office in Dublin is a natural and exciting step for our business.

“The Exponent platform has been further enhanced by the high-quality team assembled in Dublin and we are delighted to welcome Jacqueline on board. We are resolute in our commitment to Ireland and look forward to expanding the team in the years to come as we continue our investing journey in the Irish market.”

Established in 2004, Exponent focuses on primary investment opportunities, purchasing businesses from corporates and families and entrepreneurs.

The investor specialises in the Media, Consumer, Financial Services and Business Services sectors. Now investing from its fourth fund, Exponent has raised over €3bn to date.

A selection of Exponent’s current and past investments include Trainline, Moonpig, Ambassador Theatre Group, Big Bus, Dennis (publisher of The Week magazine), SHL, Isio (formerly KPMG Pension Advisory), Loch Lomond and Quorn Foods.

Photo: The Dublin office is led by operation director Jacqueline Flynn